Kenya Simbas arrive in Uganda ahead of Rugby Africa Cup Clash

The Kenya Simbas have arrived in Uganda, ready to kick off their campaign in the Rugby Africa Cup, which also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The team jetted into the country on Thursday morning, set to face off in what promises to be a heated regional derby.

Simbas team manager Jimmy Mnene expressed excitement about finally getting into action after a month-long training camp in South Africa.

“We’re excited to be in Uganda and looking forward to the matches. The mood in camp is excellent. We’ve had solid preparations in South Africa, where we played a few tough games as build-up to the Rugby Africa Cup,” said Mnene.

Although optimistic, Mnene acknowledged Uganda’s advantage ahead of the much-anticipated showdown on Tuesday.

“Heading into this match, Kenya is the underdog for a couple of reasons. Uganda recently played against the Limpopo Blue Bulls, a team we also faced in South Africa and lost to. Plus, they’re playing at home, backed by their fans,” he noted. “But being a derby, we’re counting on our supporters to turn up and cheer us on.”

The Uganda Rugby Cranes’ 28-man squad was announced on Tuesday. It features star players like Philip Wokorach and Adrian Kasito, both of whom have had recent stints abroad, Wokorach in France and, more recently, India.

The team is under the guidance of head coach Fred Mudoola, supported by an experienced technical bench that includes Marvin Odongo, Leonard Lubambula, and Timothy Mudoola. International consultants Cornelius Marais and Zane Kirchner are also part of the backroom staff.

The stage is now set for a thrilling East African derby as Uganda and Kenya battle for supremacy and a place on the road to the Rugby World Cup.